Daily Reflection: Why You’re Worth It – A Little Note On Luxury

I was having a discussion the other day with someone who mentioned that I have a lot of expensive stuff on my site, that there was no way that I could justify such luxury in today’s economy.

Hmm. Yes, yes I believe I can. First of all, let’s look at the definition of the word, shall we?

lux·u·ry [luhk-shuh-ree, luhg-zhuh-] plural lux·u·ries, adjective noun 1. a material object, service, etc., conducive to sumptuous living, usually a delicacy, elegance, or refinement of living rather than a necessity 2. free or habitual indulgence in or enjoyment of comforts and pleasures in addition to those necessary for a reasonable standard of well-being 3. a means of ministering to such indulgence or enjoyment 4. a pleasure out of the ordinary allowed to oneself 5. a foolish or worthless form of self-indulgence

In this definition, price is not discussed. Indulging yourself is not a crime, folks, it’s a necessity for keeping your sanity. As Americans, we have unlimited liberties to buy and do just about anything we want. We have access to incredible craftmanship and we’re able to work, live, play, sleep and shop as we see fit. Yet, somewhere in our minds, there’s this strange aversion to the world “luxury” – like you would never think of spending THAT MUCH MONEY on something nice.

This is my question: what is so wrong with being good to yourself? NOTHING, that’s what. When it comes to luxury, it’s about living well. The word “refinement” is listed above. It’s not about having a bunch of “stuff.” It’s about surrounding yourself with particular items, what you love best and what makes your heart sing.

This is COVERGIRL Lip Perfection lipstick in Hot. It is by far one of the most superior lipsticks on the market today. It’s the perfect red, it looks smashing on everyone and with consistent use it can change the condition of your lips. Do you need this lipstick to survive? No. So it becomes an indulgence, a luxury if you will. At under $9, this lipstick can change your whole outlook on life and can give you the power to walk out there and be damned sexy. Do you absolutely need it? No. Should you get it? Yes.

This is the Tom Ford Beauty Eye Color Quad in Titanium Smoke. The formulas, as with everything from the Sultan of Sexy, are the best you can buy. The colors are rich, they stay put and they blend into artistic perfection. This eyeshadow palette is the ultimate purchase (in my opinion) when it comes to a smoky eye palette. Do you need this eyeshadow palette to survive? No. But should you get it? Yes, because when you see how hot you look, the way you feel will become a necessity. You will use it until it runs out. I have it. I know what I’m talking about.

This is a pair of Loeffler Randall Dita Platform Pumps. These shoes are not only incredibly sexy, they are so comfortable you will think that angels are placing their hands under your feet as you walk. You will think that Jessie Randall must have cobblers on loan from heaven because her shoes are so fabulous, comfy and stylish. Do you need to spend that much on one pair of shoes? Yep. They will last you YEARS and you will love them to death. An indulgence? Maybe, but good quality everything to me is a necessity.

Finally, via the fabulous Barneys New York (an entire STORE of necessities/indulgences depending on your point of view,) this is a Proenza Schouler PS1 Tote in Striped Canvas and Printed Python. First of all, this satchel is extraordinary, it will wear with insane quality and the beautiful thing is that it will become a statement piece for you. You don’t need an entire closet full of handbags or the ill-fated “it” bags. This bag is amazing. I can scarcely think of a look it wouldn’t flatter. Over time, it will only look cooler. Quite the indulgence if you only use it once or twice but if you love this bag like I do, that wouldn’t happen. You would carry it daily for years.

It’s about loving yourself to give yourself what you want. If a bubble bath is what you want, take one. If you want to doll up in a Haute Hippie Layla Beaded Mini Dress and dazzle people on the street, do that. It’s my belief that luxury only becomes foolish if you’re overextending yourself to enjoy your life. If you can get the Balenciaga Animalier Printed Classic First, do it. If you need to save for a while, do that.

But at the end of the day, you’re worth every investment in yourself. Because you get your own self-worth, confidence and happiness in return. I’ll bank on that investment any day.